Ear Problems

Air travel is often associated with rapid changes in air pressure. This is particularly true when the airplane is landing, when the cabin's air pressure increases. To remain comfortable, the Eustachian tube in your ear must open frequently and wide enough to equalise these changes; this is characterised by a popping sound and a feeling of release of pressure.

If your ears do not pop automatically, it can lead to a build up of pressure; which at best is merely uncomfortable, and at worst is excruciatingly painful.

Tips and Tricks

There are several ways to help your ears to adjust to the pressure changes on board.

• Many experienced air travellers use a decongestant pill or nasal spray an hour before descent. This will helps the ears pop more easily. However, the side effects (drowsiness and dry mouth) can make jetlag worse.
• Yawning is an excellent way to help your ears adjust, as is hardening the back of your tongue.
• Swallowing activates the muscle that opens the Eustachian tube. Sucking a boiled sweet or chewing gum makes you swallow more often, and so should help ease the pressure.
• If swallowing and yawning are not effective, unblock your ears as follows:
  1. Pinch your nostrils shut.
  2. Take a mouthful of air.
  3. Using your cheek and throat muscles, force the air into the back of your nose as if you were trying to blow your thumb and fingers off your nostrils.
  4. When you hear a loud pop in your ears, you have succeeded.
  5. You may have to repeat this several times during descent.
  However, care MUST be taken - if you blow too hard, you could damage your ears.
• If you are travelling with a baby, give them their bottle or pacifier during the descent - do not allow them to sleep at this time.